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Savannah James made a remarkable entrance at the 2025 Met Gala, stepping onto the red carpet solo on May 5, just hours after NBA star LeBron James announced he wouldn’t be attending due to an injury. The 38-year-old entrepreneur showcased her fashion prowess in a gorgeous Hanifa gown, reinforcing her status as a style icon.
Savannah’s Standout Performance
LeBron, who was supposed to co-chair the event along with Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, had to pull out due to an injury. The Gala’s theme was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. Even with LeBron’s absence, Savannah didn’t hold back and turned heads.
She looked radiant in a burgundy Hanifa gown, featuring a stylish pinstripe jacket and a dramatic mermaid skirt. The outfit beautifully captured the theme of the event, showcasing her unique blend of tailored sophistication and bold style, making her a major highlight of the evening.
LeBron’s Unfortunate Withdrawal
LeBron’s absence from the Gala was unexpected, especially after he had been announced as an honorary chair last October. His team’s playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, combined with a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee sustained on April 30, led to his decision to miss the event. He expressed his disappointment on X, stating, “Due to my knee injury, I won’t be able to attend the Met Gala tonight… Hate to miss such a historical event!”
Support from LeBron
Despite the situation, LeBron showed his unwavering support for Savannah, referring to her as his “beautiful powerful Queen” who would shine on the red carpet.
A Legacy of Excellence
Despite the Lakers’ playoff disappointment, LeBron made history this season by playing alongside his son, Bronny James, 20, making them the first father-son duo in NBA history to play for the Lakers. Discussing this significant moment, LeBron remarked, “Playing with Bronny was my number one highlight. He’s a fantastic kid with a bright future, and I played a role in that.”
Together with Savannah, LeBron is also a father to Bryce Maximus, 17, and Zhuri Nova, 10, and remains undecided about his retirement. He mentioned, “I plan to discuss my future playing options with my family and support system.”
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